USMNT Has the Heart, not the Talent to Overcome Mexico in Gold Cup Final

In France, the USWNT won back-to-back World Cup titles, defeating Netherlands 2-0. The game was a testament to the absurd wealth of talent the USWNT program has at its disposal. Yes, they play with heart and unmatched charisma. At the end of the day though, they just have better players than everyone else.

As discussed in our preview post of the Gold Cup Final against Mexico, some think El Tri have a positional advantage at each line-up spot over the Americans.

At a minimum, Christian Pulisc showed that’s definitely not the case tonight. However, despite a spirited and gutty effort, the USMNT simply couldn’t overcome the talent disparity against Mexico, losing the Gold Cup Final 1-0.

Both teams had big chances early

This game saw both sides create big chances early on.

Christian Pulisic, who often looked like the best player on the field, and Jonathan dos Santos both had near misses in the opening minutes.

Jozy Altidore, who earned the start over beleaguered striker Gyasi Zardes, will rue a missed opportunity in the 8th minute. Altidore received a headed pass from Paul Arriola that left him with a clear shot to put the US ahead. He muffed it off his right foot, sending the shot wide.

Almost immediately thereafter, Raúl Jiménez’s header was denied by US keeper Zack Steffen.

VERY physical, open, hyper-charged play continued until the half. The US and Mexico went into the tunnels tied 0-0.

Scoring opportunities continued, Mexico converted one of theirs

The second verse was same as the first, as both sides came out physical.

Mexico was lucky not to earn a red card, as Jozy Altidore was cheap-shotted in the 47th minute.

Big scoring chances continued as well. The US almost took the lead in the 51st minute. Christian Pulisic delivered a corner that Jordan Morris headed from close range. Morris beat Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, but Jesus Guardado was perfectly positioned to head the ball away before it crossed the line. It was a brilliant and ultimately game-changing block.